Kareem Petty Found Guilty in Peloquin Murder

Chatham County Courthouse.

Almost two years ago, Gloria Peloquin of Savannah was shot and killed while she was shopping at a grocery store at Waters Avenue and Montgomery Cross Road. Today her family is feeling some justice after a jury convicted a teenager for her murder.

After a day and a half of deliberation, the jury found Kareem Petty guilty of three different charges including felony murder and aggravated assault.

As you can imagine, it was a very emotional day for all parties involved. We spoke with Gloria's husband Leo, who says he's very pleased with the verdict and this is a day he and his family have been waiting for.

On the other hand, Petty's defense attorney Michael Schiavone feels the jury based its verdict solely on Petty's taped confession, which he believes was coerced.

"Because we do believe that the confession was coerced, not by the police, but by [Petty's associate Erwin] Fox, the person that we believe shot this woman," Schiavone said.

"To us, he's getting what he deserved," said Leo Peloquin. "Everything looked to be fair and square as far as the way it was done. He had some of the best defense...I'd hire that guy any day of the week if I needed a lawyer, because he did a really good job."

Petty, 17, was sentenced to life in prison after the verdict was read. Schiavone says he will appeal; he has 30 days to file.

Students involved in the fights at New Hampstead High School could now face criminal charges. The Savannah Chatham County Public School System launching a full investigation and threat assessment into the school.

Students involved in the fights at New Hampstead High School could now face criminal charges. The Savannah Chatham County Public School System launching a full investigation and threat assessment into the school.

Fifteen years ago, I had the honor of introducing 6-year-old Coletrane Williams to all of you when he was in the running to be the face of The GAP Store kids line. Now, he’s introducing himself to the world as one of the stars of the OWN Network’s new hit show "Love Is…"

Fifteen years ago, I had the honor of introducing 6-year-old Coletrane Williams to all of you when he was in the running to be the face of The GAP Store kids line. Now, he’s introducing himself to the world as one of the stars of the OWN Network’s new hit show "Love Is…"